Patrick Ball

On The Fly

A smidgen of history, a dash of culture - a minute dedicated to making you smile.

Author

Patrick Ball

Category

Education

Podcast website

pball001.blogspot.com

Latest episode

Jun 27, 2026

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Episodes

A Michelin Star 12.08.2023

We recently celebrated Lori's birthday at Jeune et Jolie - (Young & Pretty) , a local Carlsbad restaurant earning One Michelin Star . What is a Michelin Star?

Ticklish Trivia 05.08.2023

Perched on the precipice of tickling enlightenment, a question persists: why, oh why, can't we tickle ourselves? It's a conundrum that's laughed in the face of time, and we're none the wiser. Let's explore!

What Can You Teach Me 29.07.2023

Have you ever noticed that some people are more skilled at connecting with others and convincing them of their ideas than most? The secret to their success lies in mastering fundamental skills like empathy, communication, and leadership. Let's revisit Dale Carnegie's timeless guide, "How to Win Friends and Influence People." 

Re-Discovery 22.07.2023

Dateline March 1989 - Surrounded by a city of motor homes that sprung up overnight in the middle of a normally wind-swept California desert, the question on everyone’s mind was, “How will we know when the space shuttle Discovery arrives?”

Active Noise-Canceling 15.07.2023

Have you noticed the constant background roar of jet engines during a flight? Probably not if someone was trying to comfort a squalling baby in front or behind you. Let's explore ANC technology.

Curiosity 08.07.2023

Do your friends consider you to be a curious person? If that’s the case, what questions do you generally ask? Are they always practical? Could you explain why? Let's explore the concept.

Finger Style Guitar 01.07.2023

During a concert by Tommy Emmanuel at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, CA, on December 14, 2022, we were introduced to Mike Dawes, an exceptionally talented and creative guitarist renowned for his impressive fingerstyle technique.

Grid Addiction 24.06.2023

As I learn more about the challenges and benefits of renewable energy, I'm convinced that too many people today take electricity for granted - they are addicted. It's not "Where's the beef" It's - "Where's the Power?"

The Summer Solstice 21.06.2023

The Summer Solstice brings the longest day, with sunlight extending in a splendid display. Oh, the sun rises early and lingers late, spreading its golden rays, just wait!

The Smart Meter 17.06.2023

Do me a favor, walk out your front door, and find the electric meter for your home. Is it digital, or has a dial that rotates (analog)? Here's how you contribute to the Smart Grid.

Ask ChatGPT 10.06.2023

Today’s world has a cloud-based computer system that can consolidate knowledge and answer just about anything you choose to ask.  So, the question is, what do you ask? Let's explore the power of ChatGPT.

Gratitude 03.06.2023

Have you ever experienced a giddy feeling of lightheadedness? I’m not talking about an event that calls for a trip to the hospital but rather a delightful moment that fills you with wonder! Join me on an adventure.

The Car Radio 27.05.2023

It's possible that your next new car won't have the option to switch between AM and F.M. radio. Many automakers are now choosing to exclude AM radio from their latest models - why?

HollywoodLand 20.05.2023

The Hollywood sign represents fame, fortune, and glamour people aspire to achieve in the entertainment industry. However, some lesser-known facts about this famous landmark might surprise you.

In Solar Time 13.05.2023

We are thrilled to present a unique surprise for this week's podcast. We have composed a special tribute to Cenergy's V-Team in the form of original lyrics to the iconic Beatles song "When I'm 64".

Electronic Waste 06.05.2023

Last week we examined the resurgence of the LP record. What prompted that episode was visiting our local record shop to see about replacing a turntable cartridge. Well, after a bit of experimentation, I discovered it wasn't my turntable at fault. The problem was with my Harman/Kardon integrated stereo amplifier.

Return to Vinyl 29.04.2023

You may have missed it - Saturday, April 22, 2023, was Record Store Day. It was news to me. By chance, to get a new cartridge for my turntable, I made a trip to our local store (Standards) in Vista, CA. The store was crawling with customers. What's going on? So I had to look it up.

Third Years A Charm 26.04.2023

Welcome to Episode 207 of On the Fly. You may not believe this, but we went live on the Anchor platform (Spotify for Podcasters) three years ago today! Lately, people ask, "So, how many listeners do you have?" "Honestly, I'm not sure; I don't pay attention to the numbers." "Why not?"

My First Piano 22.04.2023

In the introduction, you heard my first piano lesson playing the melody Ode to Joy by Beethoven. Now, I'll admit I love challenging myself and learning new things. In January of this year (2023), I approached Lori and said, "This may sound a little crazy, but I want to learn to play the piano; what do you think?"

I Just Want Coffee 15.04.2023

Do you have a favorite author? Let me introduce you to one of mine; you may know him from the book A Walk in the Woods, which was made into a movie in 2015 with Robert Redford, Nick Nolte, and Emma Thompson – his name is Bill Bryson.

The Jelly Bean 09.04.2023

Happy Easter! Today many youngsters and the young at heart will scour their yards for Easter eggs and Jellybeans left by the Easter Bunny. Have you ever wondered just what it takes to make a jelly bean?

San Diego Safari Park 01.04.2023

Where do you live? Have you ever entertained the thought that you live near a magical place? No, I'm not talking about Disneyland; I'm referring to your backyard. Learn about the San Diego Safari Park.

Earl Nightingale 25.03.2023

I've been thinking about this milestone 200th episode for a few months now, considering what would be fitting. So, I went back and listened to many of the early episodes of On the Fly. I asked myself these questions, Why a podcast? What did I want to share with others? And who unknowingly had the most significant influence on my life?

iPhone Notes 18.03.2023

In previous episodes, we’ve discussed the value of having the Notes app on your iPhone. Recently I discovered the following article from Readers Digest that may help you keep those notes private.

Over the Rim 11.03.2023

Early dawn breaks in Arizona; with both arms frantically flailing, I grab to catch my hat. An enormous blast of wind snatched it off my head in a split second. Welcome to the Grand Canyon!

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